Initial works approved for AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium expansion

Plans for enabling works to expand AFC Bournemouth's Vitality Stadium have been approved by the council’s eastern planning committee.

The approved proposals include preparations for a new south stand, perimeter fencing complete with turnstiles, and an outside broadcast compound. AFC Bournemouth President of Business Operations, Jim Frevola, described it as a "relatively small" part of a larger redevelopment project.

The planning meeting took place on 22nd January, where councillors debated parking, noise, and infrastructure concerns raised by local residents and officials. AFC Bournemouth pledges to fund the redevelopment fully but the club has faced criticism over communication with councillors and the community.

Concerns raised during the meeting

Residents from nearby Middleton Gardens spoke up at the meeting, expressing concerns over the impact of the future stadium expansion on their houses. Nick Day noted the proposed east stand extension would reduce light to homes by 30% due to its increased height and proximity, suggesting the west stand should be expanded instead. Gavin Tew reiterated his concerns.

Councillors Lawrence Williams and Sharon Carr-Brown voiced worries about parking issues and illegal overspill during matches affecting residential areas. Traffic solutions including new double yellow lines, CSAS officers, and a transport working group to encourage walking, cycling, and public transport were promised to mitigate the loss of 155 parking spaces.

Concerns over a diverted cycle lane and footpath were highlighted by Councillor Joe Salmon, who proposed deferring the decision to address these issues, but this suggestion did not gain approval. Speaking after the meeting, he said, "We deserve a better designed solution. Once this is built, there is no way back."

Final decision

Despite objections, the application was approved with eight votes in favour and one abstention. Councillor Lawrence Williams later urged AFC Bournemouth to open discussions with ward councillors regarding community impact. BCP Council Leader Millie Earl recognised the difficulty of balancing development needs while prioritising community interests.

The enabling works for Vitality Stadium are part of AFC Bournemouth's ambitious plans to expand and modernise their facilities, with further phases expected to be submitted at a future date.

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